Lawmaker’s life-savers get heroes treatment

The Texas House this morning honored those who saved the life of Rep. Edmund Kuempel earlier this month after the Seguin Republican was found unconscious in a Capitol elevator by House assistant sergeant-at-arms Jennifer Irby.

State photo

Rep. Edmund Kuempel, R-Seguin

DPS Troopers Edwin Carpenter, Antonio Rico and Diane Riojas responded swiftly after Irby brought the elevator up from the basement to the main floor of the Capitol where DPS troopers rushed with a defibrillator. Rep. John Zerwas, R-Richmond, a physician, provide chest compressions.

HR 2768 recognized their conduct and quick-thinking actions that made the critical difference in saving Kuempel’s life.

Kuempel’s wife, Birdie Kuempel and the couples two children and grandchildren attended the ceremony.

The 26-year state lawmaker is hopeful of making a brief appearance in the House chamber on Monday – the final day of the session.